Motorcycle License in Rhode Island

Rhode Island's small size makes it the perfect state for motorcyclists. You'll face fewer delays getting from one place to another, all while enjoying the beach-lined roads of the aptly named Ocean State.

Keep reading for more information on how to get your Rhode Island motorcycle credentials.

New to Rhode Island

If you've just arrived in Rhode Island—congratulations on your move! You'll have 30 days after establishing residency to take care of any license transfers, including your motorcycle endorsement.

To do so, visit the Cranston Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office and:

  • Surrender your out-of-state license.
  • Complete the Application for License, Identification Card and Permit (Form LI-1).
  • Provide proof of your:
  • Pass the following tests IF your out-of-state motorcycle license/endorsement has been expired for more than 5 years:
    • Written knowledge test for motorcycle license.
    • Motorcycle road skills test.
  • Pay the $27.50 RI motorcycle license fee.

The DMV will then issue you your Rhode Island license with motorcycle endorsement, which is valid for a maximum of 2 years, expiring on your birthday.

How to Get a Motorcycle License in Rhode Island

To be eligible to receive a motorcycle license from the Rhode Island DMV, you must:

After completing the steps above, you'll then be able to apply for a full RI motorcycle license.

Motorcycle Education in Rhode Island

The first step to getting your Rhode Island motorcycle endorsement is enrolling in a motorcycle education course. The RI DMV works with the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) to provide all motorcycle endorsement applicants with the necessary training.

The CCRI's motorcycle education program incorporates the curriculum established by the nationally-recognized Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). The MSF Basic RiderCourse will teach you essential skills like:

  • Choosing the most protective riding gear.
  • Finding the safest route for riding.
  • Making smooth stops and turns.
  • How to deal with emergencies.

The Rhode Island DMV ONLY ACCEPTS certificates of motorcycle education course completion from the Community College of Rhode Island.

To find out more about required motorcycle education in Rhode Island or to enroll in a motorcycle safety course, you can:

Rhode Island Motorcycle Permits

In order to get your Rhode Island motorcycle permit, you must be at least 16 years old AND meet all other eligibility requirements listed above.

Once you're ready, head to your local Division of Motor Vehicles office branch and provide your:

You'll then receive your RI motorcycle permit! Well done!

Your permit will be valid for 18 months. You are required to practice riding with it for at least 30 days before applying for your official motorcycle endorsement.

Motorcycle Permit Restrictions

While riding with a Rhode Island motorcycle permit in hand, you'll need to keep certain restrictions in mind. The Rhode Island DMV prohibits motorcycle permit holders from:

  • Using limited-access highways.
  • Riding without the supervision of someone who:
    • Holds a motorcycle license.
    • Is at least 18 years old.
  • Carrying passengers.

Getting Your RI Motorcycle License

Once you've held your permit for at least 30 days without incident, you can go to any RI Division of Motor Vehicles office and provide your:

The DMV will then issue you your Rhode Island motorcycle license! Your endorsement will expire on the same day as your standard RI driver's license.

Fees for RI Motorcycle Licenses

The fees required by the DMV to get your Rhode Island motorcycle endorsement are as follows:

  • Motorcycle permit: $27.50.
  • Motorcycle license: $27.50.

Forms

LI-1
Application for License, Identification Card and Permit
Apply for an original, renewal, OR duplicate learner's permit, driver's license, motorcycle license, OR identification card with the Rhode Island DMV.
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